Therapists in Portsmouth, NH

Photo of Mark D Moses, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Mark D Moses
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I feel honored to be engaged in this work and gratified when the individuals, couples and families whom I serve 'find their way'... healing, growing and discovering the possibilities in their lives.The benefits from psychotherapy may be symptomatic relief and solutions to presenting concerns. You also may learn to better cope with your family or other relationships, thus experiencing more satisfaction from those relationships. Another possible benefit may be a better understanding of your personal goals and values towards making life decisions.
I feel honored to be engaged in this work and gratified when the individuals, couples and families whom I serve 'find their way'... healing, growing and discovering the possibilities in their lives.The benefits from psychotherapy may be symptomatic relief and solutions to presenting concerns. You also may learn to better cope with your family or other relationships, thus experiencing more satisfaction from those relationships. Another possible benefit may be a better understanding of your personal goals and values towards making life decisions.
(603) 728-4515 View (603) 728-4515
Photo of Judith Hatch-Orme, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Judith Hatch-Orme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
I offer consulting for parents to learn collaborative parenting (married or divorced). With over 37 years of clinical experience, I'm also a parenting specialist, helping parents to understand their children's behavior & needs. As a divorce mediator, my approach is child-centered. As parents struggle to meet their children's needs at a time of heightened tension, they need support and guidance. They must navigate a difficult grieving process, while they learn to transform their relationship from marital partners to business partners, sharing the "business" of raising their children together to ensure everyone thrives.
I offer consulting for parents to learn collaborative parenting (married or divorced). With over 37 years of clinical experience, I'm also a parenting specialist, helping parents to understand their children's behavior & needs. As a divorce mediator, my approach is child-centered. As parents struggle to meet their children's needs at a time of heightened tension, they need support and guidance. They must navigate a difficult grieving process, while they learn to transform their relationship from marital partners to business partners, sharing the "business" of raising their children together to ensure everyone thrives.
(603) 801-6382 View (603) 801-6382
Photo of Matthew Fowler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Matthew Fowler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I help children, parents, and couples overcome obstacles, improve relationships, and better their lives. Starting a family can be one of the most exciting and fulfilling experiences, but when things do not go according to plan, this can be one of the biggest struggles for parents and children. I help families uncover the issues that contribute to the problem and find solutions to help you obtain the vision you always wanted for your child and your family.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I help children, parents, and couples overcome obstacles, improve relationships, and better their lives. Starting a family can be one of the most exciting and fulfilling experiences, but when things do not go according to plan, this can be one of the biggest struggles for parents and children. I help families uncover the issues that contribute to the problem and find solutions to help you obtain the vision you always wanted for your child and your family.
(603) 531-8811 View (603) 531-8811
Photo of Kimberly Meurillon, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Kimberly Meurillon
Counselor, LCMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I'm passionate about working with individuals navigating depression, anxiety, mania, and perinatal mental health concerns. Engaging in therapy can be particularly meaningful when experiencing interpersonal conflicts and going through major life events: such as the onset of a mood disorder, preparing for life after high school and college, moving to a new community, adjusting to early parenthood, or coping with pregnancy loss.
I'm passionate about working with individuals navigating depression, anxiety, mania, and perinatal mental health concerns. Engaging in therapy can be particularly meaningful when experiencing interpersonal conflicts and going through major life events: such as the onset of a mood disorder, preparing for life after high school and college, moving to a new community, adjusting to early parenthood, or coping with pregnancy loss.
(603) 691-3745 View (603) 691-3745
Photo of Catherine Watters, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portsmouth, NH
Catherine Watters
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Connection has been found to be the biggest determinant of social, emotional and physical health and well-being. I believe that we are experts of our own lived experiences and seek to connect with clients to help them identify the link between challenging experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and offer strategies to better cope with those situations. My training has centered on a strengths-based, empowering approach with the guiding principles of my practice being one of empathy, compassion, kindness, and respect.
Connection has been found to be the biggest determinant of social, emotional and physical health and well-being. I believe that we are experts of our own lived experiences and seek to connect with clients to help them identify the link between challenging experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and offer strategies to better cope with those situations. My training has centered on a strengths-based, empowering approach with the guiding principles of my practice being one of empathy, compassion, kindness, and respect.
(833) 987-6897 View (833) 987-6897
Photo of Kelsey Irving, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Kelsey Irving
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Are you sick of the constant chatter in your head? The what-ifs and worst case scenarios? With years of experience treating anxiety, I can help you disrupt those repetitive anxious thoughts. Whatever the nature of your intrusive thoughts, you will never be met with shock or judgment from me. I've worked with hundreds of clients just like you and helped them to feel liberated from fear and worry. I aim to help my clients shift from a pattern of fear-based decisions to values-based decisions. Starting therapy can be intimidating but if you wait until you "feel ready," it might never happen! Message me today!
Are you sick of the constant chatter in your head? The what-ifs and worst case scenarios? With years of experience treating anxiety, I can help you disrupt those repetitive anxious thoughts. Whatever the nature of your intrusive thoughts, you will never be met with shock or judgment from me. I've worked with hundreds of clients just like you and helped them to feel liberated from fear and worry. I aim to help my clients shift from a pattern of fear-based decisions to values-based decisions. Starting therapy can be intimidating but if you wait until you "feel ready," it might never happen! Message me today!
(603) 326-4334 View (603) 326-4334
Photo of Katelyn Gelineau, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Katelyn Gelineau
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
At this time, I only have availability between 10am-2:30pm. As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I have a variety of methods to meet the needs of those I work with. Though my approach will vary based on individual needs and preferences, I primarily utilize skills-based (cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness) approaches. I provide solution-focused, trauma-informed psychotherapy to adolescents and adults struggling to cope with emotion dysregulation, interpersonal conflict and poor self-esteem.
At this time, I only have availability between 10am-2:30pm. As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I have a variety of methods to meet the needs of those I work with. Though my approach will vary based on individual needs and preferences, I primarily utilize skills-based (cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness) approaches. I provide solution-focused, trauma-informed psychotherapy to adolescents and adults struggling to cope with emotion dysregulation, interpersonal conflict and poor self-esteem.
(603) 353-0820 View (603) 353-0820
Photo of Lauren DeBaene, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Lauren DeBaene
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling trapped and consumed by anxiety, disordered eating, or poor self esteem? I am a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental therapist who can help you take charge of your life again. I would feel privileged to provide you with a safe space and useful coping tools in a comfortable therapeutic setting. Intense emotions and negative intrusive thoughts often take us out of the present moment and slow our progress towards a life of freedom, purpose, and adventure. I specialize in treating individuals struggling with eating disorders, depression and anxiety disorders.
Are you feeling trapped and consumed by anxiety, disordered eating, or poor self esteem? I am a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental therapist who can help you take charge of your life again. I would feel privileged to provide you with a safe space and useful coping tools in a comfortable therapeutic setting. Intense emotions and negative intrusive thoughts often take us out of the present moment and slow our progress towards a life of freedom, purpose, and adventure. I specialize in treating individuals struggling with eating disorders, depression and anxiety disorders.
(603) 824-3868 View (603) 824-3868
Photo of Adrienne Cress, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Adrienne Cress
Counselor, LCMHC, REAT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Life is not always an easy road to navigate and sometimes we need a guide to help us find our way again. In my work I enjoy helping my clients heal the blocks to the true authentic Self. Our fears, wounds, self-criticisms and identity issues are not who we are, but we must resolve them before we can live the life that is waiting to be ours.
Life is not always an easy road to navigate and sometimes we need a guide to help us find our way again. In my work I enjoy helping my clients heal the blocks to the true authentic Self. Our fears, wounds, self-criticisms and identity issues are not who we are, but we must resolve them before we can live the life that is waiting to be ours.
(603) 787-5179 View (603) 787-5179
Photo of Diane Koehler, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Diane Koehler
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Sometimes in life we question where we are going or cannot seem to find a path to get to where we want to be ~ to be happy with ourselves and at peace. The world today may be creating more stressors in our life than what we are use to causing a feeling of imbalance, depression or anxiety. My goal is to create a safe, respectful and caring atmosphere where one may explore and begin to understand one's thoughts, behaviors and feelings. Together with my clients, we explore their dreams, challenges and fears. Along this journey there can be self-discovery, problem solving and self love.
Sometimes in life we question where we are going or cannot seem to find a path to get to where we want to be ~ to be happy with ourselves and at peace. The world today may be creating more stressors in our life than what we are use to causing a feeling of imbalance, depression or anxiety. My goal is to create a safe, respectful and caring atmosphere where one may explore and begin to understand one's thoughts, behaviors and feelings. Together with my clients, we explore their dreams, challenges and fears. Along this journey there can be self-discovery, problem solving and self love.
(978) 961-9414 View (978) 961-9414
Photo of Pat Coughlin in Portsmouth, NH
Pat Coughlin
MSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
My intention as a therapist is to provide a warm and emotionally safe space for you to explore and work through those issues that keep you from living the life you want. In my 36 years of working in the field of mental health as well as death and dying, I have developed a client centered holistic approach to healing. I work with grief, chronic illness, depression, pet loss, life transitions, aging, caregiving issues and personal growth. I have come to embrace the belief that humans are capable of great healing, and I feel honored to be a witness and facilitator to that process.
My intention as a therapist is to provide a warm and emotionally safe space for you to explore and work through those issues that keep you from living the life you want. In my 36 years of working in the field of mental health as well as death and dying, I have developed a client centered holistic approach to healing. I work with grief, chronic illness, depression, pet loss, life transitions, aging, caregiving issues and personal growth. I have come to embrace the belief that humans are capable of great healing, and I feel honored to be a witness and facilitator to that process.
(888) 505-4875 View (888) 505-4875
Photo of Deb Heath-Barlow, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portsmouth, NH
Deb Heath-Barlow
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Waitlist for new clients
I believe we need mutual respect and trust in a therapeutic relationship. I work to build relationships that have those aspects as a foundation in our work together. I use active listening, empathy and understanding with evidence-based strategies to determine customized approaches that meet each individual's needs. I utilize a strength-based, solution focused approach in my work, identifying strengths and coping skills to be used as tools for increased success. The use of cognitive behavioral therapy is the cornerstone of my work but other modalities may come into play.
I believe we need mutual respect and trust in a therapeutic relationship. I work to build relationships that have those aspects as a foundation in our work together. I use active listening, empathy and understanding with evidence-based strategies to determine customized approaches that meet each individual's needs. I utilize a strength-based, solution focused approach in my work, identifying strengths and coping skills to be used as tools for increased success. The use of cognitive behavioral therapy is the cornerstone of my work but other modalities may come into play.
(603) 709-4758 View (603) 709-4758
Photo of Andrea Kelley Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Andrea Kelley Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
If you are here, it’s likely because you are in some state of struggle. Perhaps you are considering therapy for the first time and you are uncertain what to expect. Or maybe you are returning to therapy with a different purpose or goal. In either case, it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, uncomfortable, stuck or even defeated. However distressing your struggle may be, I suspect there is also a sense of hope… a feeling or wish that things could be better. That hope is part of your innate human drive to get to a better place even when faced with enormous adversity.
If you are here, it’s likely because you are in some state of struggle. Perhaps you are considering therapy for the first time and you are uncertain what to expect. Or maybe you are returning to therapy with a different purpose or goal. In either case, it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, uncomfortable, stuck or even defeated. However distressing your struggle may be, I suspect there is also a sense of hope… a feeling or wish that things could be better. That hope is part of your innate human drive to get to a better place even when faced with enormous adversity.
(833) 442-4896 View (833) 442-4896
Photo of Kate Lemire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Kate Lemire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Currently accepting new clients! Life has a way of throwing bumps at us, and oftentimes, these bumps have the ability to negatively impact our mental health. My primary goal is to build trust and safety so that I can support you, your child, or your family as you navigate these obstacles in a safe space.
Currently accepting new clients! Life has a way of throwing bumps at us, and oftentimes, these bumps have the ability to negatively impact our mental health. My primary goal is to build trust and safety so that I can support you, your child, or your family as you navigate these obstacles in a safe space.
(833) 657-0325 View (833) 657-0325
Photo of Avantika K. Waleryszak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Avantika K. Waleryszak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Not accepting new clients
You have the right to be seen and recognized in your grief and not judged. You deserve to have a safe space to share your innermost thoughts and feelings with a trusted partner. You are capable of deep healing, with the ability to live a life that is congruent with your integrity and values. You deserve a break, with time to breathe and deeply care for yourself. Your life, your thoughts and your feelings matter. Whatever challenges you are confronting right now, please know that there is a safe space to explore, learn and grow.
You have the right to be seen and recognized in your grief and not judged. You deserve to have a safe space to share your innermost thoughts and feelings with a trusted partner. You are capable of deep healing, with the ability to live a life that is congruent with your integrity and values. You deserve a break, with time to breathe and deeply care for yourself. Your life, your thoughts and your feelings matter. Whatever challenges you are confronting right now, please know that there is a safe space to explore, learn and grow.
(855) 622-5505 View (855) 622-5505
Photo of Christine Williams, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Christine Williams
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that is something to be admired. Being strong doesn't mean we have to work through everything on our own. I practice from the belief that no matter how stuck or lost you may feel, growth and healing are always possible.
Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that is something to be admired. Being strong doesn't mean we have to work through everything on our own. I practice from the belief that no matter how stuck or lost you may feel, growth and healing are always possible.
(603) 326-6645 View (603) 326-6645
Photo of Dr. Cecile Gunn at Evergreen Psychology, PLLC, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Dr. Cecile Gunn at Evergreen Psychology, PLLC
Psychologist, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I help clients address anxiety and depression, but primarily examine how those symptoms developed, why they persist, and how to create lasting changes. We pay attention to thoughts and emotions, but also to somatic symptoms, learning from our bodies. Targeting both helps change how we think, feel, and experience ourselves and others. I have been practicing therapy for over 10 years, working with diverse clients who struggle with significant trauma histories, challenging relationships, and disordered eating patterns. All of this work is in the context of an affirming, respectful, and connected therapeutic relationship.
I help clients address anxiety and depression, but primarily examine how those symptoms developed, why they persist, and how to create lasting changes. We pay attention to thoughts and emotions, but also to somatic symptoms, learning from our bodies. Targeting both helps change how we think, feel, and experience ourselves and others. I have been practicing therapy for over 10 years, working with diverse clients who struggle with significant trauma histories, challenging relationships, and disordered eating patterns. All of this work is in the context of an affirming, respectful, and connected therapeutic relationship.
(603) 836-9792 View (603) 836-9792
Photo of Wendy Quinn, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Wendy Quinn
Psychologist, PsyD, LADC, ADTR
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
During this medical crisis, Dr. Quinn is providing TelePsychology through a secure web portal. With thirty-five years of experience in the field of mental health, Dr. Quinn specializes in the effective treatment of eating disorders, addictions & trauma through individual, couples & family therapy for adults, children and adolescents. In treating clients with eating disorders, Dr. Quinn works closely with families, primary care physicians, psychiatrists and inpatient facilities to coordinate treatment. Dr. Quinn also incorporates expressive therapies (art & movement) with verbal therapy to access inner pain and promote deep healing.
During this medical crisis, Dr. Quinn is providing TelePsychology through a secure web portal. With thirty-five years of experience in the field of mental health, Dr. Quinn specializes in the effective treatment of eating disorders, addictions & trauma through individual, couples & family therapy for adults, children and adolescents. In treating clients with eating disorders, Dr. Quinn works closely with families, primary care physicians, psychiatrists and inpatient facilities to coordinate treatment. Dr. Quinn also incorporates expressive therapies (art & movement) with verbal therapy to access inner pain and promote deep healing.
(603) 685-3145 View (603) 685-3145
Photo of Tracie Warner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Tracie Warner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
My practice is currently full, but I'm happy to provide approximate wait time on openings. I have deep appreciation for the strength it takes to reach out for support when life becomes overwhelming, stressful or we find ourselves stuck. Recognizing that we might be in need of support can be difficult, I see it as a bold and courageous endeavor that can lead to a happier and more enriched life. I utilize an eclectic approach in my practice to support my clients with managing a variety of mental health issues, to assist in finding symptom relief, to work towards achieving improved relationships and overall increased life satisfaction.
My practice is currently full, but I'm happy to provide approximate wait time on openings. I have deep appreciation for the strength it takes to reach out for support when life becomes overwhelming, stressful or we find ourselves stuck. Recognizing that we might be in need of support can be difficult, I see it as a bold and courageous endeavor that can lead to a happier and more enriched life. I utilize an eclectic approach in my practice to support my clients with managing a variety of mental health issues, to assist in finding symptom relief, to work towards achieving improved relationships and overall increased life satisfaction.
(603) 392-7907 View (603) 392-7907
Photo of Marissa Knowles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Marissa Knowles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Welcome! Have you noticed more feelings of sadness or irritability, worry about your future, or trouble keeping up with the demands of everyday life? Are you struggling with the stress and uncertainty you've experienced over the past few years? I would be honored to help support you through this period in your life, while offering a safe space to process your concerns and encourage emotional growth and healing. I have a special interest in working with marginalized and diverse populations, including those in the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe every client has inherent strengths and the ability to find peace and joy in their lives.
Welcome! Have you noticed more feelings of sadness or irritability, worry about your future, or trouble keeping up with the demands of everyday life? Are you struggling with the stress and uncertainty you've experienced over the past few years? I would be honored to help support you through this period in your life, while offering a safe space to process your concerns and encourage emotional growth and healing. I have a special interest in working with marginalized and diverse populations, including those in the LGBTQIA+ community. I believe every client has inherent strengths and the ability to find peace and joy in their lives.
(603) 272-6726 View (603) 272-6726

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Portsmouth, NH

300+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Portsmouth, NH who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
85% Depression
78% Relationship Issues
76% Self Esteem
69% Coping Skills
64% Stress
62% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

14 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

64% BlueCross and BlueShield
60% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
58% Anthem | Elevance

How Therapists in Portsmouth, NH see their clients

68% In Person and Online
32% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
17% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Portsmouth?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.